Inspire. Ignite. Impact. That is the motto of the Center for Entrepreneurship, who works with Monmouth University students, alumni, and the regional startup and small business community to make their entrepreneurial dreams a reality. They offer one-on-one coaching, mentorship, business-building resources, and learning opportunities for students who want to develop their business ideas.
The Center for Entrepreneurship is available to help students in any phase of their business development whether that be starting up a business or working to develop one’s entrepreneurial skills. Students can partake in a self-guided multi-step plan for aspiring entrepreneurs to develop their idea.
Currently, they are getting ready to host its annual HawkTank competition that will take place on Apr. 29. Three finalists will pitch their business in front of a panel of judges for a chance to win a cash prize to invest in their business idea.
Students have the opportunity to get involved with the Center for Entrepreneurship at any point during their time at Monmouth. Some students opt to begin working with the center as early as their freshman or sophomore, building up their project, and some eventually submit to HawkTank, a business pitch competition open to graduate and undergraduate students.
The Center for Entrepreneurship is a resource for all schools and students on campus. For example, last year’s finalists included students studying communications, biology, engineering, nursing, business, political science, and music.
The Center for Entrepreneurship also hosts other events throughout the year including panel discussions and demo sessions for students to gain insights and understand unique perspectives from current entrepreneurial visionaries and leaders. The next event will take place on Apr. 1 in the Center for Entrepreneurship, Main Street Innovators: Local Visionaries Reimagining Retail. All are welcome to join.
“It’s been wonderful to collaborate with students, alumni, faculty, the campus community and regional entrepreneurs and leaders. I’m excited by the growing impact happening through the Center for Entrepreneurship here at Monmouth,” says Alison Gilbert, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship.
Over the next few weeks, The Outlook will feature this year’s HawkTank finalists, and give a preview of their business ideas ahead of HawkTank 2025!
